True Grit (Coens, 2010)

True Grit (Joel & Ethan Coen, 2010)

As I have been saying for a while now, the Coen brothers thrive in a rural setting. While they are definitely hit or miss with me, True Grit is one of their better efforts. Using numerous classic western storytelling techniques, a group of ragged, flawed protagonists set out to track an unseen and slightly mysterious antagonist.

After a bit of a rough start which featured Juno-esque ‘wiser-than-her-years’ quick-snap dialogue, and a little too much misplaced humor, the film’s relationships begin to mold and form – most importantly the father/daughter-like relationship between Marshall Cogburn and his young employer Mattie (played fantastically during the second half by Hailee Steinfeld). Void of false sentimentality, the two slowly grow a mutual respect and love for each other. And, as expected from director of photography Roger Deakins, their trials and travels are accompanied by beautiful cinematography, both indoors and out.  8.25/10